The Best Day Trips From Houston for Seniors
8 Day Trips from Houston for Seniors
Are you an active, Houston-area senior looking for something fun to do with friends and family? You might be surprised to discover the sheer variety of things you can do in your own backyard. From exploring stout warships to America’s discoveries in outer space, there’s a huge number of senior day trip ideas just waiting to be enjoyed. Read on for our list of the best day trips from Houston.
Try Island Living
If you’re looking for short day trips from Houston, Galveston Island has plenty of beautiful beaches, rich history and incredible old-world charm. If you’re looking for shopping and fun in the sun, be sure to check out the iconic Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier. Ferry rides are available from this Gulf of Mexico destination, giving you plenty of chances to see the dolphins and take some fantastic photos.
While you’re there, why not visit a park that crams all sorts of fun into one big place? Moody Gardens of Galveston Island combines an aquarium, a zoo, an amusement park, a well-maintained beach, kids’ attractions and a 4D movie theater into one exciting experience. And if your day trip lasts well into the night, it’s even a resort!
Explore America’s Space Program
Ready for takeoff? Visit the NASA Space Center right here in Houston. With exhibits that cover America’s spaceflight history from the Apollo missions to the Mars rovers, it’s one of the best local day trips for seniors and younger generations alike. And for the particularly daring visitors, the lunar orbiter simulator offers an exciting and informative thrill. But be warned – the zero-G experience isn’t for the squeamish or faint of heart.
Take in Some Nature
Less than a two-hour drive from Houston, the Shangri-La Botanical Gardens are a treat for anyone who appreciates beautiful nature scenes, lovely sculptures and serene surroundings. Take in the gorgeous view of over 300 distinct species, including native Texan plants and exotics from around the world.
Even closer to downtown Houston, the Beaumont Botanical Gardens are a popular spot for photographers, online influencers and lovers of all things lush. Highlights include the tropical greenhouses and lily ponds full of koi.
Discover Texan History
Everyone should make a trip to the San Jacinto Monument and museum. It commemorates the final battle in the Texan war for independence from Mexico – a battle that lasted less than 20 minutes and cost fewer than 10 American casualties. See the sights and learn the history, including the vital contribution of Houston’s namesake, Sam Houston.
Looking for something a little more modern and maritime? Hop aboard the USS Texas. Built in 1912, it’s the only surviving ship to serve in both world wars. Now the battleship is permanently moored in a drydock to serve as a museum, covering its years at sea and the broader historical context surrounding them.
Samples and Tasty Tours
Indulge your sweet tooth by taking a tour of the Blue Bell Creamery in Brenham, Texas. You’ll get an inside look at how the ice cream is churned, frozen, packaged and sold – plus, you’ll get to sample all the varieties of ice cream that make Blue Bell a national favorite. It’s a great way to cool down on a hot summer day!
Fancy savoring something a little more hands-on? Try grape stomping at the Pleasant Hill Winery. Once you’ve picked the grapes and enjoyed getting a little messy, you can stick around to sample wines made with the finest Mediterranean grapes.
Find Your Home Base
No matter where you roam, you’ll always find a warm welcome at our retirement community. With our frequent resident outings to places near and far, we’re big believers in new adventures and exciting discoveries at any age. Here, you’ll find a consistent, steady and reliable partner that supports your needs and encourages your independence. For more on how The Buckingham supports Houston-area seniors, please contact us